Glen Moray Classic Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Glen Moray distillery is located on the banks of the River Lossie in Elgin, Scotland. It has a history dating back to the late 19th century, established in 1897.
Type: Scotch whisky without an age statement.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Not explicitly detailed in the transcript, but the presence of oak influence suggests traditional aging in oak barrels.
Age Statement: No age statement is provided for this whisky.
Color and Clarity: The whisky is likely colored, as there is no mention of it being uncolored on the bottle. The specific color is not described, but the implication of coloring suggests a standard amber hue.
Bottle Design: The bottle design is not described in the transcript.

Balance of Flavors: The Glen Moray Classic presents a balance between light, fruity, and citrus notes with a surprising oak attack leading to bitterness in the aftertaste.
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its light and fruity profile with citrus and maltiness, transitioning to a bitter aftertaste from the oak influence. The bitterness fades quickly, leaving a less sour taste.
Comparison: No direct comparisons are made to other whiskies, but its profile of being light and fruity with an unexpected bitter aftertaste sets it apart.

Distillery History: Glen Moray was formerly part of Glenmorangie plc and was sold to Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy, then to a French company (name not clearly remembered, possibly La Martinique). It has a history of being sold at a lower price point.
Anecdotes: The distillery experienced a significant flooding event in 2009 or 2010 due to its location by the River Lossie, highlighting the risks and necessities of water in whisky production.

Historical Context: Glen Moray's history and its transitions between owners reflect the evolving landscape of the whisky industry, particularly the movement of distilleries among luxury goods portfolios.
Geographical Context: The distillery's location by the River Lossie is significant for its water source and the inherent risks of flooding, emphasizing the natural challenges in whisky production.

Opinions: The reviewer, Horst Luening, expresses a critical view of no-age-statement whiskies but finds the Glen Moray Classic to be unusually pleasant despite its bitterness in the aftertaste.
Quotes: "Very fruity, light, citrus notes, a little maltiness, quite pleasant," and "This is an unusual whisky, quite pleasant in the nose, pleasant in the taste and then you have this bitterness in the aftertaste."

Glen Moray Classic is a no-age-statement Scotch whisky, light and fruity with a surprising bitter aftertaste.
Located in Elgin, Scotland, the distillery has a history dating back to 1897 and has experienced ownership changes and natural challenges like flooding.
The whisky's flavor profile includes citrus, maltiness, and a notable oak-induced bitterness that fades quickly.
The distillery's story includes its sale from Glenmorangie plc to Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy and then to a French company, reflecting its position in the whisky market.

Whisky Beginners: May find the light and fruity profile approachable but should be prepared for the unexpected bitterness.
Experienced Whisky Enthusiasts: Might appreciate the unique balance of flavors and the historical context of the distillery.
Bargain Hunters: Given its lower price point, those looking for value may find this an interesting addition to their collection.
Curious Tasters: Individuals interested in exploring the effects of oak on whisky without a heavy age influence might find this particularly intriguing.